Ancient city of Balkh Tourism

The ancient city of Balkh, often referred to as 'the mother of cities,' is one of the oldest cities in the world, situated near the modern-day city of Mazari-Sharif in Afghanistan. This historic city, believed to have been founded around 1500 BCE, was originally an important center of Zoroastrianism and later became a key hub for trade and culture along the Silk Road. Balkh's illustrious past saw it as the capital of Bactria and a nexus of various civilizations, including Greek, Persian, and Hellenistic influences, until its decline in the 13th century due to Mongol invasions. The remnants of ancient Balkh present magnificent architectural ruins, including city walls, gates, and the remains of ancient temples and mosques, showcasing a blend of various cultural influences. The most notable site is the ancient No Gumbad Mosque, which dates back to the 9th century. Though much of the original glory of Balkh has been lost to time and conflict, it remains an important archaeological and historical site, reflecting a rich tapestry of human history and civilization in the region.